A hurricane warning remains in force for Ono-i-Lau and Vatoa while storm and gale warnings are in force for the rest of Southern Lau Group, Matuku, Totoya, Moala, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands, Lakeba and Nayau.

A strong wind warning is in force for the rest of Fiji including Viti Levu and Vanua Levu.

The Nadi Weather Office says the centre Category 4 of Severe Tropical Cyclone Gita was located about 60 kilometers South-Southwest of Ono-i-Lau at 3.15pm.

Close to its centre the cyclone is expected to have average winds speeds up to 195km/hr with monetary gusts to 275km/hr.

Please note that destructive winds are likely to begin several hours before the cyclone passes overhead or nearby.